Southern California -- this just in

Dorner case: At least 3 people are eligible for $1-million reward

February 15, 2013 | 4:53
pm

At least three people could be eligible for the $1-million reward offered for information leading to the capture and conviction of Christopher Dorner, even though the fugitive ex-cop died before being arrested, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said Friday.

Dorner, 33, died Tuesday in a Big Bear cabin fire after a standoff and shootout with police. He was tracked to the mountain cabin after tying up a couple in one cabin and carjacking another man minutes later. All three reported seeing Dorner to police.

"There are at least three people that could qualify," Villaraigosa said, while speaking to reporters after a news conference at City Hall. "There may be more."

The reward is believed to be the largest ever offered locally. More than two dozen donors--including local governments and police departments, civic organizations, businesses and individuals--contributed $1 million for information leading to Dorner's arrest and capture. The Los Angeles City Council added $100,000 more.

It may be some time before decisions are made about whether the money will be given out, Villaraigosa said. The agencies are first conducting an investigation to prove whether Dorner killed four people, including two law enforcement officers.

"There has never been a time when rewards have been given without completing an investigation," Villaraigosa said. "It is a process. That may take some time."

“The City Council can decide who
receives their $100,000 contribution, Villaraigosa said.” But the rest of the money comes from more than 20 jurisdictions and entities, including the cities of Riverside and Irvine. Some or all will participate in the final decision.

[Updated at 5:20 p.m.: The Los Angeles County Board of
Supervisors also approved a $100,000 contribution, bringing the total reward to
$1.2 million.]